Cotswold District Council launches consultation on 2026/27 budget
Cotswold District Council is inviting residents to have their say as it prepares its budget for 2026 – 2027.
The council – like many across the country – faces significant financial challenges over the coming years, with rising service costs, reduced government funding, and a projected budget gap that requires careful planning.
This is against the backdrop of local government reorganisation, which means Cotswold District Council and its current neighbouring authorities won’t exist beyond April 2028.
David Stanley, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Section 151 Officer, said:
“We want to hear from residents about how we can best manage our finances while continuing to deliver good services and prepare for the future. The Council faces a challenging financial environment, and your feedback will help us make informed decisions that safeguard services and support our communities.”
Since 2010, the council’s core funding from central government has fallen by around 60 per cent, and further reductions are expected as national resources are directed towards social care and tackling deprivation.
At the same time, the Government has announced major changes to local government in Gloucestershire from April 2028, which will see the creation of one or two new unitary authorities to replace existing councils.
Earlier this year, the council updated its corporate priorities for 2025–2028 to reflect the changed landscape. The priorities are:
- Preparing for the future
- Delivering good services
- Responding to the climate emergency
- Delivering housing
- Supporting communities
- Supporting the economy
The budget consultation seeks views on the council’s approach to managing its finances, including proposals for a small increase in Council Tax (around £5 a year for a Band D property), setting fees and charges fairly, and remodelling services to reduce costs through technology and efficiency measures.
Residents are also asked for their views on how the council should approach service delivery and investment in its final two years before reorganisation, including whether to maintain services as they are or transform them to be more cost-effective and customer-focused.
The consultation is open until Wednesday 14th January 2026. To take part, visit https://your.cotswold.gov.uk/en-GB/projects/budget-consultation-2026-27